Driftwood: The Heartland's Alternative Rock Storytellers

Driftwood is an American alternative rock band from Ithaca, New York, known for their raw, folk-infused sound and relentless touring ethic. The group's major label debut, 2017's "City Lights," cracked the Billboard 200 and propelled their grassroots following into a national audience.

Early career

Formed in 2006, the core duo of Dan Forsyth and Joe Kollar began as street performers, honing a dynamic live show built on acoustic guitar, violin, and fervent harmonies. Their self-released debut album, "Rally Day," emerged in 2010, catching the attention of the independent label Truth & Salvage Co., which reissued it the following year.

Breakthrough

The band's relentless DIY approach culminated in a 2015 signing with Glassnote Records. Their first album for the label, 2017's "City Lights," became their commercial breakthrough, debuting at number 187 on the Billboard 200 and selling over 500,000 copies in the U.S., earning a gold certification.

Key tracks

City Lights — This anthemic title track served as the lead single and became the band's first entry on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart.

Fire & Brimstone — A staple of their live set, this driving song showcases their signature blend of folk instrumentation with rock intensity.

The World Is Calling — Featured in several major network television shows, this track significantly expanded Driftwood's reach beyond their core fanbase.

Only One I Need — A heartfelt ballad that demonstrated the band's songwriting depth and received consistent adult album alternative (AAA) radio play.

Following "City Lights," Driftwood maintained a steady output, releasing "State of the Union" in 2020. They have collaborated with artists like singer-songwriter Liz Longley and shared stages with bands such as The Lone Bellow, further cementing their place in the modern folk-rock scene.

Fans of the earnest, guitar-driven storytelling of The Lumineers will appreciate Driftwood's communal energy. The roots-rock authenticity of The Avett Brothers is a clear touchstone for the band. Listeners drawn to the raw vocal delivery and narrative songs of Shakey Graves will find a kindred spirit in Driftwood's music.

Driftwood's catalog is a regular feature on alternative rock radio stations and independent music radio stations that champion authentic, lyric-forward rock. Their songs frequently appear in the rotations of online rock radio streams dedicated to emerging and established rock acts.

You can hear the music of Driftwood on a variety of radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their discography and listen to their evolving heartland rock sound through our curated radio stations.